Elysium Retreats has appointed Laney Thompson as General Manager of Fairwood Lakes, its flagship lodge retreat in Wiltshire, as the destination adds new accommodation and the operator pursues a wider expansion across the UK.
The appointment strengthens the leadership team at Fairwood Lakes following the September launch of The Glades, a collection of 13 lodges designed for couples and families. The retreat is also opening two newly refurbished one-bedroom lakeside lodges, known as the Private Hideaways, in October.
Thompson brings leadership experience across luxury hospitality, resort operations, property and guest experience. She has held senior roles at Charteroak and Retallack Resort & Spa, and was most recently Resort Director of Whalesborough Spa Resort in Cornwall. Her career has included leading complex resort operations and new hospitality openings, improving operational and health and safety standards, and building teams focused on the guest experience.
At Fairwood Lakes she will oversee the day-to-day running of the retreat and lead the on-site team, maintaining standards as the destination grows while keeping the character and welcoming atmosphere that guests value. One of her first priorities is supporting the team through the opening of the Private Hideaways and making them a seamless part of the wider guest experience.
“Fairwood Lakes already has a strong identity and an incredibly special setting, so my role is about building on those foundations as the retreat grows.
Laney Thompson, General Manager, Fairwood Lakes
“Following the September launch of The Glades, my immediate priority is to support the team as we prepare to open the newly refurbished Private Hideaways in October. For me, exceptional hospitality is about getting the details right, listening to our guests and giving the team the support they need to provide a genuinely personal experience.
“What immediately stood out to me was Elysium Retreats’ commitment to creating thoughtful, high-quality stays that allow guests to switch off and reconnect with nature. I’m looking forward to helping Fairwood Lakes develop while retaining the warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes it so special.”
“Laney brings strong operational experience alongside a genuine understanding of thoughtful and personal hospitality. As Fairwood Lakes grows, it is essential that we retain the character, warmth and attention to detail that our guests value.
Matt Pressman, Operations Director, Elysium Retreats
“Laney’s leadership and guest-focused approach made her a natural fit for the role. She will play an important part in supporting our team as we build on the launch of The Glades, open the Private Hideaways and shape the next stage of Fairwood Lakes’ development.”
Located 20 minutes from Bath, Fairwood Lakes is Elysium Retreats’ flagship destination, with a collection of premium waterside, woodland and floating lodges set among lakes and woodland.
Under the ownership of Sight Acre Group, Elysium Retreats recently announced plans to develop up to 12 new locations across the UK over the next two years. The recent and forthcoming openings at Fairwood Lakes form part of that next stage of growth, which the operator says will preserve the privacy, tranquillity and connection to nature for which the retreat is known.
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